Free little libraries . take a book , return a book .
Little Free Libraries are a free book exchange . There are three in Cairns and they form part of a world-wide network that ’ s helping improve literacy , spark connection and inspire readers . Anyone can take a book or bring a book to share . Keep an eye out for the libraries at 108 Martyn Street , Whitfield ’ s Colin Penridge Park ( behind Murchison Street ), and the Cairns School of Distance Education .
Emma Roberts hosts the Martyn Street library - as an ex school teacher , books are important to her . She says books can do anything from teach us empathy , connect us to people , and transport us places we ’ ve never been .
“ Ours is a busy little box and also a great conversation starter for people in the street . It ’ s made from 100 % recycled material from our house renovations .”
Emma ’ s Little Library is surrounded by free herbs , vegetables and fruit trees that are free for the community to take . “ Recycling , learning new ideas and sharing resources in the community are important to me . We ’ re bombarded by so many terrible stories in the media , and I think that ’ s why things like this are so important . Little Libraries are a little bit of positive counter culture that promotes community spirit .”
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